Code arrangement and container of system for preparing a beverage or foodstuff

ABSTRACT

A container for a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine, the container for containing beverage or foodstuff preparation material and comprising on a surface thereof an arrangement of separate codes encoding preparation information, whereby each code encodes a distinct phase of a preparation process. Also disclosed is a beverage or foodstuff preparation system comprising the container and an attachment configured for attachment to an element of the system. Further disclosed is a computer program and non-transitory computer readable medium for use therewith. Also disclosed are methods of producing and using the above devices and apparatus.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCESTATEMENT

This application is a US national stage application filed under 35 USC §371 of International Application No. PCT/EP2016/053732, filed Feb. 23,2016; which claims priority to EP App No. 15165920.8, filed Apr. 30,2015. The entire contents of the above-referenced patent applicationsare hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The described embodiments relate generally to beverage or foodstuffpreparation systems which prepare a beverage or foodstuff fromcontainers such as coffee capsules, and in particular to codes arrangedon the container that encode preparation information for reading by amachine of said system.

BACKGROUND

Increasingly preparation machines for the preparation of a beverage orfoodstuff are configured to operate using a container that comprises asingle-serving of a preparation material, e.g. coffee, tea, ice cream,yoghurt. The machine may be configured for preparation by processingsaid material in the container, e.g. with the addition of fluid, such asmilk or water, and the application of mixing thereto, such a machine isdisclosed in PCT/EP13/072692. Alternatively, the machine may beconfigured for preparation by at least partially extracting aningredient of the material from the container, e.g. by dissolution orbrewing. Examples of such machines are provided in EP 2393404 A1, EP2470053 A1, EP 2533672 A1, EP 2509473 A1, EP 2685874 A1.

The increased popularity of these machines may be partly attributed toenhanced user convenience compared to a conventional preparationmachine, e.g. compared to a manually operated stove-top espresso makeror cafetiére (French press).

It may also be partly attributed to an enhanced preparation process,wherein preparation information specific to the container and/orpreparation material therein is: encoded in a code on the container;read by the preparation machine; used by the machine to optimise thepreparation process. In particular, the preparation information maycomprise operational parameters of the machine, such as: fluidtemperature; preparation duration; mixing conditions.

Accordingly, there is a need to code preparation information on thecontainer. In particular there is a need to encode large amounts ofinformation as preparation processes increase in complexity due to thedevelopment of more sophisticated machines, which are able to prepare awide-range of foodstuff or beverages. Various such codes have beendeveloped, an example is provided in EP 2594171 A1, wherein a peripheryof a flange of a capsule comprises a code arranged thereon. The codecomprises a sequence of symbols that can be printed on the capsuleduring manufacture. A drawback of such a code is that its encodingdensity is limited, i.e. the amount of preparation information that itcan encode is limited. A further drawback is that the code is highlyvisible and may be considered aesthetically displeasing. EP14168061discloses a similar code with similar such drawbacks. EP2525691Bdiscloses a container with a 2D barcode, which has a higher albeitlimited encoding density.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic drawing illustrating embodiments of beverage orfoodstuff preparation systems that comprises a machine and a containeraccording to embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control subsystem and codeprocessing subsystem for the preparation machine of FIG. 1 according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is diagrammatic drawing illustrating containers for thepreparation machine of FIG. 1 according to embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 4-9 are plan views showing to scale codes and code arrangementsfor the containers of FIG. 3 according to embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10-11 are diagrammatic drawings illustrating attachments for thesystem of FIG. 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain non-limiting aspects of the disclosure are directed to providinga container for beverage or foodstuff preparation material thatcomprises an encoding arrangement that can encode a range of complexpreparation operations. It would be advantageous to provide such anencoding arrangement that has a high encoding density. It would beadvantageous to provide such an encoding arrangement that is lessvisible than the prior art. It would be advantageous to provide such anencoding arrangement that is un-complicated such that it does notcomprise a large number of symbols. It would be advantageous to providesuch an encoding arrangement that is cost-effective to produce and thatcan be read by a cost-effective code reader. It would be advantageous toprovide such an encoding arrangement that can be reliably read andprocessed.

Disclosed herein according to a first embodiment is a container for use(e.g. it is suitably dimensioned) by a beverage or foodstuff preparationmachine, in particular the machine according to the second embodiment.The container for containing beverage or foodstuff material (e.g. it hasan internal volume and may be food safe). The container may be asingle-serving container, e.g. it is dimensioned for containing a dosageof beverage or foodstuff material for preparation of a single serving(e.g. pre portioned) of said product. The container may be a single-usecontainer, i.e. it is intended to be used in a single preparationprocess after which it is preferably (but not by way of limitation)rendered unusable, e.g. by perforation, penetration, removal of a lid orexhaustion of said material. The container comprises on a surfacethereof an arrangement of separate codes (e.g. the codes are distinctfrom each other such that they: are geometrically separate; do not sharecommon portions; encode information as isolated units) encodingpreparation information, whereby each code encodes a distinct phase(i.e. each code encodes a single phase only) of the preparationinformation corresponding to a distinct phase of a preparation process.In certain non-limiting embodiments, there are 3-8 difference phases ofa preparation process encoded.

Accordingly, certain non-limiting aspects of the disclosure are solvedsince the container can encode a preparation operation as a series ofdistinct phases, with a separate code for each phase.

The preparation information may comprise information that is related toa phase preparation process, e.g. one or more parameters used by themachine such as: temperature; torque and angular velocity (for mixingunits of machines which effect mixing); flow rate/volume; pressure; %cooling power; time (e.g. for which a phase comprising one or more ofthe aforesaid parameters are applied for); expiry date; containergeometric properties; phase identifier; container identifier; a recipeidentifier that may be used to retrieve one or more parameters of themachine which are used by the machine to prepare the product, whereinsaid parameters may be stored on the machine; pre-wetting volume.

In certain non-limiting embodiments, the codes have a peripheral shapethat is repeatable with an at least partially tessellating arrangement,such as a rectangular shape (e.g. a square or other rectangle) or otherpolygon such as a hexagon. One advantage is that the codes can becompactly arranged together in a group. The codes may be arrangedadjacent to each other along at least one edge thereof (i.e. they extendalong a line which is at least one code wide). The codes may all havethe same orientation. Alternatively, the adjacent codes may be rotated,e.g. by one of 90°, 180°, 270°. One advantage is that by having a morevariable arrangement the coding on a container is less visible.

The codes may be arranged in a column along a line (i.e. in a 1×iarrangement wherein i extends along a line). The line may be linear ornon-linear, such as circumferentially extending. In certain non-limitingembodiments, there are a plurality of columns arranged adjacent eachother and extending longitudinally along parallel track arrangements.The columns may be aligned with each other such that rows, which extendperpendicular to the columns, are aligned. With such an arrangement avertex of a code is common to four codes. Alternatively adjacent columnsmay be offset with respect to each other along said lines such that therows are not aligned. With such an arrangement a vertex of a code iscommon to two codes only. One advantage is that by having a morevariable arrangement coding is less visible.

The codes may be arranged in a particular sequence that is orderedaccording to an order of use of the phases encoded therein during apreparation process (e.g. the phases are arranged in numerical orderfrom 1-i, whereby phase 1 is used first, followed by 2 and so up to i).The codes may be arranged in said order along the aforesaid columns. Oneadvantage is that the location of the codes can be processed todetermine conveniently the order of the phases encoded therein.

More particularly, the codes may be arranged into a plurality of codingregions, such as (but not limited to) 2-6 regions. Each coding regionmay comprise a plurality of codes with each code encoding the same phase(i.e. identical codes), whereby the coding regions have said sequentialarrangement (i.e. the regions are arranged in an order according to useduring the preparation process). Alternatively, each coding region maycomprise a plurality of codes with the codes encoding the differentphases, whereby said plurality of codes in each coding region has thesaid sequential arrangement (i.e. the codes within the coding regionsare arranged in an order according to use during the preparationprocess). An end of the said sequential arrangements may comprise codesthat encode information to identify a start and end of said sequence.The coding regions may be annular or at least partially annular (i.e. inthe circumferential direction) in shape with a concentric arrangement.One advantage is that, when reading the code the image processor canmove outwardly from the centre in any direction to ensure all of thecodes are read. Alternatively the coding regions may by the shape of aright-angled parallelogram and are stacked adjacent each other.

One or more of the codes (such as, but not limited to, all) may encodeas the preparation information a phase identifier to identify an orderof the phase used during said preparation process.

The codes may comprise a reference portion and a data portion. Thereference portion providing a reference position for the data portion.The reference portion comprising a arrangement, which may be linear, ofat least two reference units defining a reference line r, the dataportion comprising at least one data unit, wherein the data unit isarranged on (e.g. with at least a portion thereof, generally a centre,intersecting said line) a portion of an encoding line D that intersectsthe reference line r, the data unit occupies a distance d along theencoding line D as a variable to at least partially encode a parameterof the preparation information. The distance d may be discrete (i.e. thedata unit can only occupy one of a plurality of predetermined positionsalong the line D) or continuous (i.e. a data unit can occupy anyposition along the line D). The latter is preferable (but not by way oflimitation) since more information can be encoded. The data portion maycomprise a plurality of encoding lines D (e.g. up to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10,16, 20 or more), each comprising a corresponding arrangement of a dataunit (i.e. the data unit is arranged a distance d from an intersectionpoint to at least partially encode a parameter). The encoding line D mayhave one of the following arrangements: encoding line D is semi (i.e. itcomprises a segment of a circle) or fully circular and is arranged witha tangent thereto orthogonal to the reference line r at saidintersection point; the encoding line D is linear and arrangedorthogonal to the reference line r. In certain non-limiting embodiments,the codes have a peripheral length (e.g. a diameter or side length of arectangle) of 600-1600 μm or 600-6000 μm. Accordingly certainnon-limiting aspects of the disclosure are achieved since the code isnot particularly visible. More particularly, the units (i.e. the dataunits and reference units) that comprise the code have, in certainnon-limiting embodiments, a unit length of 50-250 μm. The aforesaid unitlength may be defined as: a diameter for a substantially circular unit;a side length for a quadrilateral unit; other suitable measure of lengthfor a unit of another shape. The code may comprise and encoding areawhich is annular, whereby the encoding lines D extend concentricallyabout a centre thereof. Alternatively the code may comprise and encodingarea which is rectangular. The data units of the code are arrangedwithin the bounds of said encoding area.

As an alternative to the above code other suitable codes may be used,such as a QR code or other optically readable code.

The data units and reference units may be formed by one of thefollowing: printing (e.g. by a conventional ink printer: one advantageis that the code can be conveniently and cost-effectively formed);engraving; embossing. The code may be formed directly on a surface ofthe container, e.g. the substrate for the units is integral with thecontainer. Alternatively the code may be formed on an attachment, whichis attached to the container.

The container may comprise the beverage or foodstuff preparationmaterial contained therein. The container may comprise one of thefollowing: a capsule; packet; a receptacle for consumption of thebeverage or foodstuff therefrom. The capsule may have an internal volumeof 5-80 ml. The receptacle may have an internal volume of 150-350 ml.The packet may have an internal volume of 150-350 ml or 200-300 ml or50-150 depending on the application. In certain non-limitingembodiments, the packet comprises the arrangement of codes extendingalong a peripheral rim thereof. The packet may comprise a plurality ofinternal volumes, whereby each internal volume may have associatedtherewith a said arrangement of codes, whereby each code arrangement mayencode preparation information specific to said internal volume. Eacharrangement may extend along a periphery of the said volume.

Disclosed herein according to a second embodiment is a beverage orfoodstuff preparation system comprising a container according to anyfeature of the first embodiment and a beverage or foodstuff preparationmachine, said preparation machine comprising: a preparation unit toreceive a container and to prepare a beverage or foodstuff therefrom; acode processing system operable to: obtain one or more digital image(s)(e.g. several digital images can be mosaicked to ensure all the encodedphases are captured) of a plurality of codes of the container; processsaid digital image(s) to decode for each phase of a beverage preparationprocess the encoded preparation information and to determine an order ofsaid phases; a control system operable to control the preparation unitto execute the preparation process using said decoded preparationinformation in the determined order of phases.

Determining of an order of the phases may comprise decoding an encodedphase identifier of a phase or processing the arrangement of the codeson the container, e.g. for cores arranged sequentially.

Processing of the digital image to decode the preparation informationmay comprise: locating the units of the code; identifying the referenceunits and determining therefrom a reference line r, determining for eachdata unit a distance d along the encoding line D from the reference liner.

The preparation unit is generally operable perform said preparation bythe addition of fluid, such as water or milk to the beverage orfoodstuff material. The container processing subsystem may comprise oneof an: an extraction unit; a dissolution unit; a mixing unit. Thecontainer processing subsystem may further comprise a fluid supply thatis operable to supply fluid to the aforesaid unit. Generally the fluidsupply comprises a fluid pump and a fluid heater. The aforesaid unitsmay be configured for operation with a container containing beverage orfoodstuff material.

Disclosed herein according to a third embodiment is a method ofpreparing a beverage or foodstuff, using the system according to thesecond embodiment, the method comprising: obtaining one or more digitalimage(s) of a plurality of codes of the container according to the firstembodiment; obtaining one or more digital images of a plurality of codesof the container; processing said digital image(s) to decode for eachphase of a beverage preparation process the encoded preparationinformation and to determine an order of said phases; a control systemoperable to control the preparation unit to execute the preparationprocess using said decoded preparation information in the determinedorder of phases.

The method may further comprise any of the steps for processing of thedigital image as defined by the third embodiment.

Disclosed herein according to a fourth embodiment is an attachmentconfigured for attachment to a container of a beverage or foodstuffpreparation machine according to the first embodiment. The attachmentmay comprise: a carrier carrying on a surface thereof an arrangement ofcodes as described in the first embodiment; an attachment member forattachment to said container. In certain non-limiting embodiments, theattachment member is configured for attaching said carrier to thecontainer as if it were formed integrally on the container. In this wayit can be read by the image capturing device as if it formed integrallythereto. Examples of suitable attachment members comprise: an adhesivestrip; a mechanical fastener such as a clip or bolt.

Disclosed herein according to a fifth embodiment is attachmentconfigured for attachment to a beverage or foodstuff preparation machineaccording to the second embodiment. The attachment may comprise: acarrier carrying on a surface thereof an arrangement of codes asdescribed in the first embodiment; an attachment member for attachmentto said machine. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the attachmentmember is configured for attaching said carrier to the machine at aposition between an image capturing device of said machine and thecontainer when received, such that the code thereon is proximate saidcontainer. In this way it can be read by the image capturing device asif it were attached to the container. Examples of suitable attachmentmembers comprise: extensions attached to said carrier comprising anadhesive strip or a mechanical fastener such as a clip, bolt or bracket.

Disclosed herein according to a sixth embodiment is a use of a containeras defined in the first embodiment or the attachments as defined in thefourth and fifth embodiment for a beverage or foodstuff preparationmachine as defined in the second embodiment.

Disclosed herein according to a seventh embodiment is a computer programfor a processor of a code processing system of a beverage or foodstuffpreparation machine as defined the second embodiment, the computerprogram comprising program code to: obtain one or more digital images ofa plurality of codes of the container according to the first embodiment;process said digital image(s) to decode for each phase of a beveragepreparation process the encoded preparation information and to determinean order of said phases. The computer program may further compriseprogram code for effecting any of the steps of processing of the digitalimage as defined by the second embodiment. The functional unitsdescribed by the computer programs generally herein may be implemented,in various manners, using digital electronic logic, for example, one ormore ASICs or FPGAs; one or more units of firmware configured withstored code; one or more computer programs or other software elementssuch as modules or algorithms; or any combination thereof. Oneembodiment may comprise a special-purpose computer specially configuredto perform the functions described herein and in which all of thefunctional units comprise digital electronic logic, one or more units offirmware configured with stored code, or one or more computer programsor other software elements stored in storage media.

Disclosed herein according to an eighth embodiment is a non-transitorycomputer readable medium comprising the computer program according toseventh embodiment. The non-transitory computer readable medium maycomprise a memory unit of the processor or other computer-readablestorage media for having computer readable program code stored thereonfor programming a computer, e.g. a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an opticalstorage device, a magnetic storage device, Flash memory.

Disclosed herein according to an eighth embodiment is a method ofencoding preparation information, the method comprising forming aplurality of separate codes on: a container for a beverage or foodstuffpreparation machine, the container for containing beverage or foodstuffmaterial; or an attachment for attachment to said container or abeverage of foodstuff preparation machine, the method furthercomprising: whereby each code encodes a distinct phase of a preparationprocess.

Disclosed herein according to a ninth embodiment is provided a use of acode as defined in the first embodiment for encoding preparationinformation, such as (but not limited to) on: a container of a beverageor foodstuff preparation machine, the container for containing beverageor foodstuff material as defined in the first embodiment; or anattachment according to the seventh or eighth embodiment.

Disclosed herein according to a tenth embodiment is an informationcarrying medium comprising the code according to the first embodiment.In particular the information carrying medium may comprise the containeras defined herein, either of the attachments as defined herein, or asubstrate, such as an adhesive strip of other suitable medium. Themethod of encoding preparation information according to the secondembodiment may be applied to the information carrying medium. The methodof decoding preparation information according to the third aspect may beapplied to the information carrying medium. The beverage or foodstuffpreparation machine according to the fourth embodiment may be configuredfor operation with the information carrying medium, e.g. via itsattachment to the container or other suitable component, such as eitherof the aforedescribed attachments. The system according to fifth maycomprise the information carrying medium. The method of preparing abeverage or foodstuff of the sixth embodiment may be adapted to compriseobtaining a digital image of the code of the information carryingmedium.

The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing someexemplary embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of thesubject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-describedfeatures are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow thescope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way.Moreover, the above embodiments may be combined in any suitablecombination to provide further embodiments. Other features, aspects, andadvantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparentfrom the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims.

Beverage Preparation System

A beverage or foodstuff preparation system 2, an example of which isillustrated in FIG. 1, comprises: a beverage or foodstuff preparationmachine 4; a container 6, which are described sequentially.

Preparation Machine

The beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 4 is operable to process aportion of beverage or foodstuff material, hereon preparation material,to a foodstuff and/or beverage for consumption by eating and/ordrinking. A foodstuff material as defined herein typically comprises asubstance capable of being processed to a nutriment generally foreating, which may be chilled or hot, non-exhaustive examples of whichare: yoghurt; mousse; parfait; soup; ice cream; sorbet; custard;smoothies. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the foodstuff is aliquid, gel or paste foodstuff. A beverage material as defined hereinmay comprise a substance capable of being processed to a potablesubstance, which may be chilled or hot, non-exhaustive examples of whichare: tea; coffee, including ground coffee; hot chocolate; milk; cordial.It will be appreciated that there is a degree of overlap between bothdefinitions, i.e. a said machine 4 can prepare both a foodstuff and abeverage.

The preparation machine 4 is generally dimensioned for use on a worktop, i.e. it is less than 70 cm in length, width and height. Thepreparation machine 4 may have various configurations depending on theparticular type of beverage and/or foodstuff it is intended forpreparation of, examples of which are:

a first embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 1,wherein the preparation machine 4 is generally for foodstuff preparationand is operable to prepare preparation material that is supplied in acontainer 6 that is a receptacle for end-user consumption therefrom,example of a suitable preparation machine is provided inPCT/EP13/072692, which is incorporated herein by reference;

a second embodiment wherein the preparation machine 4 is generally forfoodstuff preparation and is operable to dispense preparation materialthat is supplied in a container 6, such as a packet or capsule, into analternate receptacle for end-user consumption, wherein the foodstuff isprepared in the said receptacle, an example of a suitable preparationmachine is disclosed in PCT/EP13/072692, and EP 14167344A, which isincorporated herein by reference;

a third embodiment wherein the preparation machine 4 is generally forbeverage preparation and is operable to extract one or more ingredientsof preparation material within a single use container 6, such as apacket or capsule, and to dispense the said ingredients into analternate receptacle for end-user consumption, examples of suitablepreparation machines 4 are disclosed in EP 2393404 A1, EP 2470053 A1, EP2533672 A1, EP 2509473 A1 EP 2685874 A1, EP 2594171 A1, which areincorporated herein by reference.

For completeness a several such preparation machine 4 will now bedescribed in more detail, which can be considered to comprise: a housing10; a preparation unit 14; a control system 16; code processing system18, which are described sequentially:

Housing

The housing 10 houses and supports the aforesaid components andcomprises: a base 20 for abutment of a horizontally arranged supportsurface; a body 22 for mounting thereto the associated components.

Preparation Unit

Depending on the embodiment of the preparation machine 4, thepreparation unit 14 may be operable to at least partially prepare afoodstuff/beverage from preparation material arranged in: asingle-serving, single use container 6; a container 6 that is areceptacle for end-user consumption therefrom; a combination thereof.Embodiments of each configuration of which will be discussed.

In general all the embodiments the preparation unit 14 comprises a fluidsupply 12 that is operable to supply fluid used during preparation,which is in general water or milk that maybe conditioned (i.e. heated orcooled), typically to the container 6 (or receptacle depending on theembodiment of the machine 4). The fluid supply 12 typically comprises: areservoir 24 for containing fluid, which in most applications is 1-5litres of fluid; a fluid pump 26, such as a reciprocating or rotary pumpthat may be driven by an electrical motor or an induction coil; a anoptional fluid heater 28, which generally comprises an in-line, thermoblock type heater; an outlet for supplying the fluid to the preparationunit 14. The reservoir 24, fluid pump 26, fluid heater 28, and outletare in fluid communication with each other in any suitable order. In analternative example the fluid supply 12 may comprise a connection to anexternal fluid source e.g. a water main.

Preparation Unit for Preparation of Preparation Material Supplied inContainer

According to the first embodiment of the preparation machine 4, anexample of which is illustrated in FIG. 1, the preparation unit 14 isoperable to prepare preparation material stored in a container 6 that isa receptacle, such as a cup, pot or other suitable receptacle configuredto hold approximately 150-350 ml of prepared product. Herein thepreparation unit 14 may be referred to as a mixing unit and may comprisean: agitator unit 30; auxiliary product unit 32; thermal exchanger 34;receptacle support 52, which will be described sequentially.

The agitator unit 30 is operable to agitate preparation material withinthe receptacle 6 for at least partial preparation thereof. The agitatorunit 30 may comprise any suitable mixing arrangement, e.g. a: planetarymixer; spiral mixer; vertical cut mixer. Typically the agitator unit 30comprises: an implement for mixing having a mixing head for contact withthe preparation material; and a drive unit, such as an electric motor orsolenoid, to drive the mixing implement. In a particular (butnon-limiting) example of a planetary mixer the mixing head comprises anagitator that rotates with a radial angular velocity W1 on an offsetshaft that rotates with gyration angular velocity W2, such anarrangement is disclosed in PCT/EP13/072692.

The auxiliary product unit 32 is operable to supply an auxiliaryproduct, such as a topping, to the container 6. The auxiliary productunit 32 comprises: a reservoir to store said product; an electricallyoperated dispensing system to effect the dispensing of said product fromthe reservoir.

The thermal exchanger 34 is operable to transfer and/or extract thermalenergy from the container 6. In an example of transfer of thermal energyit may comprise a heater such as thermo block. In an example ofextraction of thermal energy it may comprise heat pump such as arefrigeration-type cycle heat pump.

The receptacle support 52 is operable to support the container 6 duringa preparation process such that the container 6 remains stationaryduring agitation of the preparation material therein by the agitatorunit 30. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the receptacle support 52is thermally associated with the thermal exchanger 34 such that transferof thermal energy can occur with a supported receptacle.

According to the second embodiment of the preparation machine 4, theafore-described first embodiment preparation unit 14 further comprises adispensing mechanism for receiving a container 6 and dispensing theassociated preparation material into the receptacle, where it isprepared. Such an example is disclosed in EP 14167344 A. In a particularembodiment with this configuration the container may be a partiallycollapsible container, whereby the container is collapsible to dispensematerial stored therein. Such an example is disclosed in EP 15195547 A,which is incorporated herein by reference. In particular a collapsibleportion of the container comprises a geometric configuration and/orportion of weakening such that said portion collapses in preference to aretaining portion upon the application of axial load through bothportions. In such an embodiment the container processing unit 14comprises a mechanical actuation device configured to apply an axialload to collapse said container, an example of which is provided in thereference application.

Preparation Unit for Extraction of Beverage Ingredients from Container

According to the third embodiment of the preparation machine 4, thepreparation unit 14 may be referred to as an extraction unit and may beoperable: to receive the container 6 containing preparation material;process the container 6 to extract one or more ingredients of a beveragetherefrom, and to dispense the said ingredients into an alternatereceptacle for end-user consumption. The container is generally asingle-use, single-serving container such as a capsule or packet: apreparation unit 14 for use with the said capsule will initially bedescribed followed by a variant machine for use with said packet.

In the example of the container 6 comprising a capsule the preparationunit 14 is operable to move between a capsule receiving position and acapsule extraction position, when moving from the capsule extractionposition to the capsule receiving position, the extraction unit may bemoved through or to a capsule ejection position, wherein a spent capsulecan be ejected therefrom. The preparation unit typically comprises: aninjection head; a capsule holder; a capsule holder loading system; acapsule insertion channel; a capsule ejection channel, which aredescribed sequentially.

The injection head is configured to inject fluid into a cavity of thecapsule when held by the capsule holder, and to this end has mountedthereto an injector, which has a nozzle that is in fluid communicationwith the outlet of the fluid supply.

The capsule holder is configured to hold the capsule during extractionand to this end it is operatively linked to the injection head. Thecapsule holder is operable to move to implement the said capsulereceiving position and capsule extraction position: with the capsuleholder in the capsule receiving position a capsule can be supplied tothe capsule holder from the capsule insertion channel; with the capsuleholder in the capsule extraction position a supplied capsule is held bythe holder, the injection head can inject fluid into the cavity of theheld capsule, and one or more ingredients can be extracted therefrom.When moving the capsule holder from the capsule extraction position tothe capsule receiving position, the capsule holder can be moved throughor to the said capsule ejection position, wherein a spent capsule can beejected from the capsule holder via the capsule ejection channel.

The capsule holder loading system is operable to drive the capsuleholder between the capsule receiving position and the capsule extractionposition.

The preparation unit 14 can operate by means of injection of fluid atpressure into the cavity of the capsule 6, e.g. at up to 20 bar, whichcan be achieved by means of the injection head and pump 26. It mayalternatively operate by centrifugation as disclosed in EP 2594171 A1,which is incorporated herein by reference. Further examples of suitablepreparation units are provided in EP 2393404 A1, EP 2470053 A1, EP2533672 A1, EP 2509473 A1 EP 2685874 A1 and EP 2594171 A1. Thepreparation unit 14 may alternatively comprise a dissolution unitconfigured as disclosed in EP 1472156 and in EP 1784344, which areincorporated herein by reference.

In the example of the container 6 comprising a packet the preparationunit 14 is operable to receive the packet and to inject, at an inletthereof, fluid from the fluid supply 12. The injected fluid mixes withpreparation material within the packet to at least partially prepare thebeverage, which exits the packet via an outlet thereof. The preparationunit 14 comprises: a support mechanism to receive an unused packet andeject a spent packet; an injector configured to supply fluid to thepacket from the outlet of the fluid supply. Further detail is providedin WO 2014/125123, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Control System

The control system 16, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 2, isoperable to control the preparation unit 14 to prepare thebeverage/foodstuff. The control system 16 typically comprises: a userinterface 36; a processor 38; optional sensors 40; a power supply 42; anoptional communication interface 44, which are described sequentially.

The user interface 36 comprises hardware to enable a user to interfacewith the processor 38 and hence is operatively connected thereto. Moreparticularly: the user interface receives commands from a user; the userinterface signal transfers the said commands to the processor 38 as aninput. The commands may, for example, be an instruction to execute apreparation process and/or to adjust an operational parameter of thepreparation machine 4 and/or to power on or off the beverage preparationmachine 4. The processor 38 may also output feedback to the userinterface 36 as part of the preparation process, e.g. to indicate thebeverage preparation process has been initiated or that a parameterassociated with the process has been selected. The hardware of the userinterface 36 may comprise any suitable device(s), for example, thehardware comprises one or more of the following: buttons, such as ajoystick button or press button; joystick; LEDs; graphic or characterLDCs; graphical screen with touch sensing and/or screen edge buttons.

The sensors 40 are operatively connected to the processor 38 to providean input for monitoring of the preparation process and/or a status ofthe preparation machine 4. The input can be an analogue or digitalsignal. The sensors 40 typically comprise one or more of the following:fluid level sensors associated with the reservoir 24; flow rate sensorsassociated with the fluid pump 26; temperature sensors associated withthe thermal exchanger 28. In the first and second embodiment of thepreparation machine 4, the sensors may further comprise: fluid levelsensors operable to measure a fluid level in the receptacle; sensors formeasuring a temperature of a product in the receptacle; sensors formeasuring the toque applied by the mixing head of the agitator unit 30to the product; sensors for measuring the velocity of the mixing head ofthe agitator unit 30; receptacle detection sensors to detect thepresence of the receptacle supported by the receptacle support 52. Inthe third embodiment of the preparation machine 4, the sensors mayfurther comprise: position sensors associated with the preparation unit14 that are operable to sense the position thereof; container 6 (i.e.capsule or packet) detection sensors to detect the presence of thecontainer supplied by a user.

The processor 38 is operable to: receive an input, i.e. the commandsfrom the user interface 36 and/or from the sensors 40; process the inputaccording to program code stored on a memory unit (or programmed logic);provide an output, which is generally a preparation process. Inparticular the output may comprise: operating the code processing system18 to determine preparation information on the container 6; operatingthe preparation unit 14 in accordance with the determined information.Operation of the preparation unit 14 can be open-loop control, or incertain particular (but non-limiting) embodiments, closed-loop controlusing the input signal from the sensors 40 as feedback. The processor 38generally comprises memory, input and output system components, whichare arranged as an integrated circuit, typically as a microprocessor ora microcontroller. The processor 38 may comprise other suitableintegrated circuits, such as: an ASIC; a programmable logic device suchas an FPGA; an analogue integrated circuit, such as a controller. Forsuch devices, where appropriate, the aforementioned program code can beconsidered programmed logic or to additionally comprise programmedlogic. The processor 38 may also comprise one or more of theaforementioned integrated circuits, i.e. multiple processors. Theprocessor 38 generally comprises a memory unit 46 for storage of theprogram code and optionally data. The memory unit typically comprises: anon-volatile memory e.g. EPROM, EEPROM or Flash for program code andoperating parameter storage; volatile memory (RAM) for data storage. Thememory unit may comprise separate and/or integrated (e.g. on a die ofthe processor) memory.

The program code stored on a memory unit (or programmed logic) can beidealised as comprising a preparation program 48 that is executable bythe processor 38 to execute said preparation process. Typically thepreparation process comprises: determining the preparation informationfrom the container (i.e. by interfacing with the code processing system18); using to control said comprising the information and/or otherinformation that may be stored as data on the memory unit 46 and/orinput via the user interface 36. The determined information may as analternative or in addition be used by the preparation program 48 or adevice in communication therewith (e.g. a server communicating with thepreparation machine over a network such as the internet via acommunication interface): to monitor container 6 consumption forre-ordering; to scheduled maintenance of the preparation machine; tomonitor machine usage.

The power supply 42 is operable to supply electrical energy to theprocessor 38 and associated components components. The power supply 42may comprise various means, such as a battery or a unit to receive andcondition a mains electrical supply. The power supply 42 may beoperatively linked to part of the user interface 36 for powering on oroff the preparation machine 4.

The communication interface 44 is for data communication of the beveragepreparation machine 4 with another device/system, typically a serversystem. The communication interface 44 can be used to supply and/orreceive information related to the preparation process, such ascontainer consumption information and/or preparation processinformation. The communication interface 44 can be configured for cabledmedia or wireless media or a combination thereof, e.g.: a wiredconnection, such as RS-232, USB, I²C, Ethernet define by IEEE 802.3; awireless connection, such as wireless LAN (e.g. IEEE 802.11) or nearfield communication (NFC) or a cellular system such as GPRS or GSM. Thecommunication interface 44 is operatively connected to the processor 38.Generally the communication interface comprises a separate processingunit (examples of which are provided above) to control communicationhardware (e.g. an antenna) to interface with the maser processor 38.However, less complex configurations can be used e.g. a simple wiredconnection for serial communication directly with the processor 38.

Code Processing System

The code processing system 18 is operable: to obtain an image of a codeon the container 6; to process said image to decode the encodedpreparation information. The code processing system 18 comprises an:image capturing device 54; image processing device 56; output device 72,which are described sequentially.

The image capturing device 54 is operable to capture a digital image ofthe code and to transfer, as digital data, said image to the imageprocessing device 56. To enable the scale of the digital image to bedetermined: the image capturing device 54 is arranged a predetermineddistance away from the code when obtaining the digital image; in anexample wherein the image capturing device 54 comprises a lens themagnification of the lens is, in certain non-limiting embodiments,stored on a memory of the image processing device 56. The imagecapturing device 54 comprises any suitable optical device for capturinga digital image consisting of the latter discussed micro-unit codecomposition; examples of suitable optical devices are: Sonix SN9S102;Snap Sensor S2 imager; an oversampled binary image sensor.

The image processing device 56 is operatively connected to the imagecapturing device 54 and is operable to process said digital data todecode preparation information encoded therein. Processing of thedigital data is discussed in the following paragraphs. The imageprocessing device 56 may comprise a processor such as a microcontrolleror an ASIC. It may alternatively comprise the aforesaid processor 38, insuch an embodiment it will be appreciated that the output device isintegrated in the processor 38. For the said processing the imageprocessing device 56 typically comprises a code processing program. Anexample of a suitable image processing device is the Texas InstrumentsTMS320C5517.

The output device 72 is operatively connected to the image processingdevice 56 and is operable to output digital data that comprises thedecoded preparation information to the processor 38, e.g. by means of aserial interface.

Container

The container 6 may comprise, depending on the embodiment of thepreparation machine 4 a: receptacle comprising preparation material forpreparation and end-user consumption therefrom; a capsule or packetcomprising preparation material for preparation therefrom. The container6 may be formed from various materials, such as metal or plastic or acombination thereof. In general the material is selected such that itis: food-safe; it can withstand the pressure/temperature of thepreparation process. Suitable examples of containers are providedfollowing.

The container 6 when not in packet form generally comprises: a bodyportion 58 defining a cavity for the storage of a dosage of apreparation material; a lid portion 60 for closing the cavity; a flangeportion 62 or other suitable arrangement for connection of the bodyportion and flange portion, the flange portion generally being arrangeddistal a base of the cavity. The body portion may comprise variousshapes, such as a disk, frusto-conical or rectangular cross-sectioned.Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the capsule 6 may take variousforms, an example of which are provided in FIG. 3A, which maygenerically extend to a receptacle/capsule as defined herein. Thecontainer 6 may be distinguished as a receptacle for end-userconsumption therefrom when configured with an internal volume of 150-350ml. In a similar fashion a capsule may by distinguished when configuredwith an internal volume of less than 100 ml. The container 6 incollapsible configuration may comprise an internal volume of 5 ml-250ml.

The container 6 when in packet form as shown in FIG. 3B generallycomprises: an arrangement of sheet material 64 (such as one or moresheets joined at their periphery) defining an internal volume 66 for thestorage of a dosage of a preparation material; an inlet 68 for inflow offluid into the internal volume 66; an outlet 70 for outflow of fluid andbeverage/foodstuff material from the internal volume. Typically theinlet 68 and outlet 70 are arranged on a body of an attachment (notshown), which is attached to the sheet material. The sheet material maybe formed from various materials, such as metal foil or plastic or acombination thereof. Typically the volume 66 may be 150-350 ml or200-300 ml or 50-150 depending on the application.

Information Encoded by Code

The container 6 comprises an arrangement of a plurality of codes 76,whereby each code encodes a phase, i.e. a distinct portion, of apreparation operation, there may for example be 3-10 sequential phasesthat the preparation operation is composed of.

Typically each code 74 encodes a phase that comprises preparationinformation, which generally comprises information related to theassociated preparation process. Depending of the embodiment of thepreparation machine 4 said information may encode one or moreparameters, which may comprise one of more of a: fluid temperature (atcontainer inlet and/or outlet to receptacle); fluid mass/volumetric flowrate; fluid volume; phase duration (e.g. a duration for applying theaforesaid parameters); container geometric parameters, such asshape/volume; other container parameters e.g. a container identifier,expiry date, which may for example be used to monitor containerconsumption for the purpose of container re-ordering.

Specifically in respect of the first embodiment preparation machine 4said encoded parameters may comprise one or more of a: percentagecooling or heating power to apply (e.g. the power applied by the thermalexchanger 34); torque applied by the agitator unit 30; one or moreangular velocities (e.g. a gyration and radial angular velocities W1,W2); container temperature (e.g. the temperature set by the thermalexchanger 34); time of a particular phase of preparation for which theaforesaid one or more parameters are applied for; phase identifier, e.g.an alphanumeric identifier, to identify which of a plurality of phasesthe aforesaid one or more parameters relate. More particularly, the code74 may encode trigger parameters, whereby if a particular conditionassociated with the trigger parameters is met the associated phase ofthe preparation process is complete, and the next phase can be executed.Typically the trigger parameters are: duration; temperature; torque.Typically the said condition comprises, for at least one of the triggerparameters, measured parameter corresponding to a value encoded by atrigger parameter.

Arrangement of Code

The codes 76 are arranged on an exterior surface of the container 6 inany suitable position such that they can be processed by the codeprocessing system 18. In the afore-discussed example of areceptacle/capsule, as shown in FIG. 3A, the codes 74 can be arranged inany exterior surface thereof, e.g. the lid, body or flange portion. Inthe afore-discussed example of a packet 6, as shown in FIG. 3B, thecodes can be arranged in any exterior surface thereof, e.g. either orboth sides of the packet, including the rim.

The codes 74 generally have a periphery that is repeatable with an atleast partially tessellating arrangement. An example of such anarrangement is a right-angled parallelogram shape (i.e. a square orrectangle), which can be arranged in columns in an aligned or staggeredformation. For the following first embodiment code 74 that has acircular encoding area, the encoding area is arranged within a squareperiphery to achieve such a shape. A further example is a hexagonalshape, which can be arranged with a honeycomb formation. For thefollowing first and second embodiment codes 74, which have respectivehas a circular and rectangular encoding areas, the encoding area isarranged within a hexagonal periphery to achieve such a shape. In thisway the codes can be compactly arranged together. The codes may bearranged adjacent to each other on at least one edge, i.e. they extendalong a line which is at least one code wide. The codes may all have thesame orientation. Alternatively, the adjacent codes may be rotated byone of 90°, 180°, 270°, an example of such an arrangement is shown inFIG. 4A, wherein 74A, 74B, 74C, 74D designates the respective rotation.Advantageously by having a more variable arrangement the coding on acontainer is less visible.

The codes are generally arranged along a line, herein termed a column,i.e. in a 1×i arrangement wherein i extends along the line. The line maybe linear or non-linear, such as circumferentially extending. In certainnon-limiting embodiments, there are a plurality of columns arrangedadjacent each other and extending longitudinally along parallel saidline, i.e. track arrangements. In FIG. 4A the arrangement may beconsidered to comprise 5 columns, each with a 1×3 arrangement. Thecolumns may be aligned with each other (as illustrated in FIG. 4A) suchthat the rows, which extend perpendicular to the columns, are aligned.With such an arrangement a vertex of a code is common to four codes.Alternatively adjacent columns may be offset with respect to each otheralong said lines such that the rows are not aligned (an example of suchan arrangement is illustrated in FIG. 4B, whereby adjacent columns are74E, 74F). With such an arrangement a vertex of a code is common to twocodes only. Advantageously by having a more variable arrangement codingis less visible.

The codes are generally arranged in a particular sequence according tothe phase encoded, whereby said phases are arranged in an orderaccording to use during the preparation process (e.g. the phases arearranged numerically along a column in order from 1-n, whereby phase 1is used first, followed by 2 and so up to n). The order may alsocorrespond to a reading direction in an example wherein the imagecapturing device 54 moves or has a focal position that moves relativethe codes 74 as part of an image capturing process. Advantageously thelocation of the codes can be processed to determine conveniently theorder of the phases encoded therein.

Generally the codes 74 are arranged into a plurality of coding regions,such as (but not limited to) 2-6 regions. Each coding region maycomprise a plurality of codes with each code encoding the same phase(i.e. identical codes), whereby the coding regions have the aforesaidsequential arrangement (i.e. the coding regions are arranged in an orderaccording to use of the phase encoded therein during the preparationprocess). Alternatively, each coding region may comprise a plurality ofcodes with the codes encoding the range of phases, whereby saidplurality of codes in each coding region has the aforesaid sequentialarrangement (i.e. the codes in the coding regions are arranged in anorder according to the use of the phase during the preparation process).Examples both arrangements are described following.

In a first embodiment arrangement each coding region 92 encodes the samephase, whereby the coding regions have said sequential arrangement, anexample of which is illustrated in FIG. 5A (wherein only a portion ofthe coding regions 92 are shown). Herein the coding regions 92 areannular in shape and are concentric about a reference position, which istypically a centre of rotation of a container 6, which is preferably butnot limited to a non-packet type container 6. The coding regions (five92A, 92B, 92C, 92D, 92E are shown in the example) are arrangedsequentially from a peripheral ring to an interior ring. Each ringcomprises a plurality of codes 74 in the radial direction (5 are shownin the example). The first embodiment arrangement may alternatively bearranged rectilinear, i.e. a rectangular or square stack of codingregions or other suitable arrangement. In the illustrated example, anoptional interior region 92F bounds the said coding regions 92A-E todefine a start/stop coding region, as will be discussed.

In a second embodiment arrangement, each coding region comprises asequential arrangement of the phases, an example of which is illustratedin FIG. 5B (wherein only a portion of the coding regions are shown).Herein the coding regions 92 are again annular in shape and areconcentric about a reference position. The coding regions (five 92A,92B, 92C, 92D, 92E, 92F are shown in the example) are arrangedsequentially from a peripheral ring to an interior ring. Each ringcomprises a plurality of codes in the radial direction (5 are shown inthe example), whereby each code encodes a different phase. The secondembodiment arrangement may alternatively be arranged rectilinear, i.e. arectangular or square stack of coding regions or other suitablearrangement.

In a specific embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 5C,the container 6 is in packet form and comprises a plurality of internalvolumes 66 (herein three 66A, 66B, 66C are illustrated) each forcontaining preparation material. Each internal volume 66 has associatedtherewith one or more coding regions (92A, 92B, 92C), which may beencoded according to the first or second embodiment coding region (thefirst embodiment is illustrated). For each internal volume 66 theassociated coding regions extend along a rim (as illustrated) or otherportion thereof. In the illustrated example: the first internal volume66A has associated therewith 3 coding regions 92A; the second internalvolume the second internal volume 66B has associated therewith 1 codingregion 92B; the third internal volume 66C has associated therewith 1coding region 92C. In the illustrated example, optional regions 92D,92E, 92F bounding the said coding regions 92 define start and stopcoding regions as will be discussed. In such an embodiment the codeprocessing system 18 decodes preparation information specific to eachinternal volume 66 using said regions 92 associated therewith.

An end of the said sequential arrangements may comprise further codingregions with codes that encode information to identify a start and endof said sequence. In the first and second embodiments coding regionssaid further coding regions are arranged at one or both ends, e.g. inthe illustrated example in FIG. 5A an end coding region 92F is arrangedadjacent the interior ring 92E. In the specific embodiment of FIG. 5C: astart coding region 92D is arranged to the left of each coding region92A, 92B, 92C; a null/end coding region 92E is arranged to the right ofeach coding region 92A, 92B, 92C; an overall end coding region 92F isarranged to the right of each coding region 92C. The start and/or endregions 92 may, when using the following preferred (but not by way oflimitation) example codes, be encoded: as a particular arrangement ofone or more of the data units 82; a specific distance d for a particularparameter.

As an alternative (or in addition) to having the aforesaid furthercoding regions one or more of the codes (such as (but not limited to)all) may encode as the preparation information (or in addition thereto)a phase identifier to identify an order of the phase used during saidpreparation process. The phase identifier can be processed by the codeprocessing system 18 to determine an associated phase number/order. Incertain non-limiting embodiments, the phase identifier is numeric oralphanumeric and is encoded discretely, i.e. it can assume one or aplurality of predetermined values. In the following particular (butnon-limiting) example codes 74 the phase identifier may be encoded as aparticular distance d for a particular parameter. With an encoded phaseidentifier it will be appreciated that it possible to have an arbitraryarrangement of codes, i.e. as opposed to an organised arrangement suchas those of the first and second embodiments. Advantageously thevisibility of the codes 74 can be reduced.

Particular (but Non-limiting) Composition of Code

The code 74 is configured to encode the preparation information in amanner for capturing by the image capturing device 54. Moreparticularly, the code is formed of a plurality of units 76, such as(but not limited to) micro-units, with a surround of a different colour:typically the units comprise a dark colour (e.g. one of the following:black, dark blue, purple, dark green) and the surround comprises a lightcolour (e.g. one of the following: white, light blue, yellow, lightgreen) or the converse, such that there is sufficient contrast for theimage processing device 56 to distinguish therebetween. The units 76 mayhave one or a combination of the following shapes: circular; triangular;polygon, in particular a quadrilateral such as square or parallelogram;other known suitable shape. It will be appreciated that due to formationerror, e.g. printing error, the aforesaid shape can be an approximationof the actual shape. The units 76 typically have a unit length of 50-200μm (e.g. 60, 80, 100, 120, 150 μm). The unit length is a suitablydefined distance of the unit, e.g.: for a circular shape the diameter;for a square a side length; for a polygon a diameter or distance betweenopposing vertices; for a triangle a hypotenuse. In certain non-limitingembodiments, the units 76 are arranged with a precision of about 1 μm.

Whilst the code is referred to as comprising a plurality of units itwill be appreciated that the units may alternatively be referred to aselements or markers.

Typically the units 76 are formed by: printing e.g. my means of an inkprinter; embossed; engraved; otherwise known means. As an example ofprinting the ink may be conventional printer ink and the substrate maybe: polyethylene terephthalate (PET); aluminium coated with a lacquer(as found on Nespresso™ Classic™ capsules) or other suitable substrate.As an example of embossing the shape may be pressed into a plasticallydeformable substrate (such as the aforesaid aluminium coated with alacquer) by a stamp.

The units 76 are organised into a: data portion 78 to encode thepreparation information; reference portion 80 to provide a reference forthe data portion 78. The reference portion 80 comprises a plurality ofreference units 86, the centres of which have a linear arrangement todefine a reference line r. One of the reference units 86 generally is areference line r orientation identifier 88, which is identified todetermine the orientation of said line. The data portion 78 may comprisean encoding area 90, within the bounds of which the data units 82 arearranged. A data unit 82 is arranged on an encoding line D thatintersects the reference line r. Generally the data unit is able tooccupy any continuous distance d along the data line D, as opposed todiscrete positions only (i.e. discrete meaning predetermined positionsonly), as a variable to encode a parameter of the preparationinformation. In this respect a wider range of information may beencoded. The data portion 78 comprises n data units 82, wherein n isnumerically 1 or more, and thus generally encodes n parameters. In asimilar fashion the reference portion 80 comprises m reference units 86,wherein m is numerically at least two.

More particularly the encoding line D intersects the reference line r ata reference position 84. A reference position 84 may or may not comprisea reference unit 86. The distance d is defined from the referenceposition to a position on the encoding line D which a centre of the dataunit 82 is arranged on, or arranged proximate thereto, e.g. at aposition on the encoding line D which is intersected by a line throughthe centre of the data unit 82, whereby said line is orthogonal to theencoding line D at the point of intersection.

Code with Polar Coordinate Arrangement

According to a first embodiment of the code 74, an example of which isillustrated in FIG. 6, the code comprises a circular planform. Typicallythe planform has a diameter of 600-1600 μm, or about 1100 μm, which willdepend on the number of parameters encoded. Note in FIGS. 6 (and 7following) the reference line r and encoding line D are shown forillustrative purposes only, that is to say they do not require physicalformation as part of the code, rather they can be defined virtually whenan image of the code is processed as will be discussed.

The reference portion 80 comprises m reference units 86, (two areillustrated) with a linear arrangement. The said reference units 86define the reference line r. One of the reference units 86 is thereference line orientation identifier 88, which enables determination ofthe orientation of the reference line r and associated referencepositions 84, e.g. each reference position 84 is a predetermineddistance (such as 100-200 μm or 160 μm) along the reference line r fromthe orientation identifier 88. The orientation identifier 88 may beidentifiable as one or a combination of: a reference unit 86 that doesnot have associated therewith a data unit 82; a one or more of adifferent shape, colour, size from the other units; a reference unitarranged at an end of the reference line r. In certain non-limitingembodiments, as illustrated, the reference unit comprises a differentsize to the other units of the code, (e.g. it has a diameter of 120 μmand the other units are 60 μm). It also preferable (but not by way oflimitation), as illustrated, to arranged the orientation identifier 88at the centre of said circular planform. In certain non-limitingembodiments, the reference line r is comprised of two reference units,i.e. the orientation identifier 88 and a further reference unit 86. Thefurther reference unit is identifiable by one or more of the following:its arrangement at a greater radial position from the orientationidentifier 88 than the data units; its arrangement at a predeterminedreserved radial position from the orientation identifier 88, whereby thedata units are not arranged at said predetermined radial position; it isdistinct from the other units of the code in terms of one of more of thefollowing: shape, size, colour. Advantageously, the reference line r canbe conveniently determined by locating the orientation identifier 88 anda further reference unit 86.

Numbering of the reference positions 84 herein comprises the lowestnumber reference position 84 proximate the orientation identifier 88,increasing consecutively to the highest number reference position 84distal thereto, as indicated by the corresponding distances d_(1-n).

The reference line r may be arranged a predetermined minimum distanceaway from the encoding area 90 of the data portion 78, e.g. by 50 μm-150μm or 100 μm, to ensure adequate separation of the reference units 86and data units 82, i.e. a radially extending portion is cut from itsannular shape.

Alternatively, as shown in the illustrated example, the reference line rextends through the encoding area 90, i.e. it radially intersects itsannular shape.

The data portion 78 generally comprises an annular encoding area 90wherein the data units 82 thereof are arranged, whereby the referenceline r extends radially from a centre of the annular encoding area 90.The encoding lines D are semi or fully circular, concentric andextending from the reference line r about the centre of the annularencoding area 90. There are n data units 82 (four are illustrated) witheach arranged at a circumferential distance d along the line D from thereference line r. A point of intersection between the encoding line Dand reference line r is locally orthogonal and defines the referenceposition 84. Each data unit 82 may have a corresponding reference unit86 at the associated reference position 84. Alternatively (as shown inthe figure), in certain non-limiting embodiments, there is no referenceunit at the reference position 84, whereby the reference position 84 isdefined virtually, e.g. it is interpolated by a predetermined distancefrom an adjacent reference unit 86.

More than one data unit 82 can be arranged along an encoding line D,e.g. so that multiple parameters are encoded on an encoding line D or sothat each parameter has multiple values associated therewith, examplesof which will be provided. A value of a parameter is encoded by thecircumferential distance d of the data unit 82 from its associatedreference position 84.

The shaded regions arranged co-axial the encoding lines D define thebounds of positions of associated data units 82. Although they are shownshaded for illustrative purposes, they are preferably (but not by way oflimitation) virtually defined by program code of the image processingdevice 56.

Each data unit 82 (or further data units) optionally encodes metadataabout an associated parameter. The metadata is generally encodeddiscretely, i.e. it can only assume certain values. Various examples ofencoding the metadata are given following.

In a first embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 7A, ametadata is encoded as a characteristic size (e.g. the size defined bythe above-defined unit length or area) of the data unit 82, the sizebeing identifiable as a variable by the image processing device 56.Particularly, the size may be one of a list of 2 or 3 or 4 particularsizes, e.g. selected from 60, 80, 100, 120 μm. In a particular example,which is illustrated at the third reference position 84, the size of thedata unit 82 may be one of three sizes. In a particular example, whichis illustrated at the second reference position 84, there are threeparameters encoded, the data unit 82 of each parameter beingidentifiable by the metadata of the three different sizes.

In a second embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 7B,metadata is encoded as a characteristic position of the data unit 82with respect to the arrangement of the data unit 82 in a directionorthogonal to the encoding line D (i.e. a radial distance and/or adistance orthogonal to a tangent drawn from the encoding line D). Inspite of the offset the encoding line D still intersects the data unit82. In particular: the data unit 82 may be offset in a first or secondposition with respect to the encoding line D to encode two values of themetadata; the data unit 82 may be offset in the first or second positionor arranged in a third position on the encoding line D to encode threevalues of the metadata. The first and second position may be defined bya centre of the data unit 82 arranged a particular distance away fromthe encoding line D, e.g. at least 20 μm. The third position may bedefined by a centre of the data unit 82 arranged less than a particulardistance away from the encoding line D, e.g. less than 5 μm. In aparticular example, which is illustrated at the third reference position84, the data unit 82 may be in a first or second position to encodemetadata. In a particular example, which is illustrated at the secondreference position, the said reference position has three parametersencoded therewith, the data unit 82 of each parameter being identifiableby the metadata of the position of the data unit 82.

In a third embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 7C inthe third reference position, metadata is encoded as a characteristicposition of one or two data units 82 with respect to their arrangementon either side of the reference line r. As examples: a data unit 82 onthe left of the reference line r may encode a negative of the parameterand a data unit 82 one the right of the reference line r may encode apositive of the parameter or the converse; for the same parameter a dataunit 82 on the left of the reference line r may encode a mantissa, adata unit 82 one the right of the reference line r may encode anexponent or the converse arrangement; a data unit 82 on the left of thereference line r may encode the same parameter as that on the right suchthat an average can be taken for enhanced accuracy. In certainnon-limiting embodiments, the encoding area 90 may be separated into twodistinct semi-circular sub-sections 90A, 90B each having an associateddata unit 82 arranged therein, e.g. the maximum distance d for either ison the reference line r in the second quadrant (or proximal thereto suchthat two data units are not arranged coincident.

In a fourth embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 7D,metadata is encoded as a plurality of data units 82 arranged along theencoding line D, each with a different associated distance d_(n).Advantageously an overall distance d can be determined with increasedaccuracy as a function (typically an average) of the distances d_(n). Inthe illustrated example two data units 82 are shown whereind=0.5(d₁+d₂).

In a fifth embodiment (not shown) metadata is encoded as acharacteristic shape. For example the shape may be one of a list of:circular; triangular; polygon. In a sixth embodiment (not shown)metadata is encoded as a characteristic colour. For example the colourmay be one of a list of: red; green; blue, suitable for identificationby an RGB image sensor.

The first-sixth embodiments may be suitably combined, e.g. an encodedparameter may have metadata encoded with a combination of the first andsecond embodiment.

A specific example of the code 74 for the first embodiment of thepreparation machine 4, is illustrated in FIG. 7E, wherein: the first,third and fourth reference positions 86 have a data unit 82 that encodesa parameter without any metadata the; second reference position 84 hasthree data units 82, each encoding a parameter, the parameter havingmetadata encoded according to a combination of the first and secondembodiment (i.e. 3 values for the size of the unit and 3 values for theposition of the unit, hence a total of 9 possible values of themetadata).

In particular: the first reference position 84 encodes a percentagecooling power to apply; the third and fourth reference positions 84encode either of the radial angular velocity W1 and the gyration angularvelocity W2; the second reference position encodes time, temperature,torque as the respective small, medium and large data units inparticular positions, whereby these parameters represent triggers suchthat when a condition set by one of them is achieved then the phaseencoded by the code 74 is compete.

Code with Cartesian Coordinate Arrangement

According to a first embodiment of the code 74, an example of which isillustrated in FIG. 8, the code comprises a right-angled parallelogramplanform, i.e. a square or rectangle. Typically the planform has a sidelength of 600-1600 μm, or about 1100 μm, which will depend on the numberof parameters encoded. Note in FIGS. 8 (and 9 following) the referenceline r and encoding line D are shown for illustrative purposes only,that is to say they do not require physical formation as part of thecode, rather they can be defined virtually when an image of the code isprocessed as will be discussed.

The reference portion 80 comprises m reference units 86, (five areillustrated) with a linear arrangement. The said reference units 86define the reference line r. One of the reference units 86 defines areference line orientation identifier 88, which enables determination ofthe orientation of the reference line r and associated referencepositions 84, e.g. each reference position 84 is a predetermineddistance (such as 100-200 μm or 160 μm) along the reference line r fromthe orientation identifier 88. The orientation identifier 88 may beidentifiable as one or a combination of: a reference unit 86 that doesnot have associated therewith a data unit 82; a different shape from theother reference units; a reference unit arranged at an end of thereference line r, in the illustrated example the latter is shown.Numbering of the reference positions 84 herein comprises the lowestnumber reference position 84 proximate the orientation identifier 88,increasing consecutively to the highest number reference position 84distal thereto, as indicated by the corresponding distances d_(1-n).

As shown in the illustrated example, the reference line r may bearranged a predetermined minimum distance away from the encoding area 90of the data portion 78, e.g. by 50 μm-150 μm or 100 μm, to ensureadequate separation of the reference units 86 and data units 82.Alternatively the reference line r bounds the encoding area 90.

The data portion 78 comprises an encoding area 90, which may be 600-1200μm, such as (but not limited to) about 800 μm) wherein the data units 82thereof are arranged. There are n data units 82 (four are illustrated)with each arranged at a perpendicular distance d along an encoding lineD from the reference line r. A point of intersection between D and rdefines the reference position 84. Each data unit 82 may have acorresponding reference unit 86 at the associated reference position 84(as shown in the figure). Alternatively there is no reference unit atthe reference position 84, whereby the reference position 84 is definedvirtually, e.g. it is interpolated by a predetermined distance from anadjacent reference unit 86. More than one data unit 82 can be arrangedalong an encoding line D, e.g. so that multiple parameters are encodedon an encoding line D or so that each parameter has multiple valuesassociated therewith, examples of which will be provided. A value of aparameter is encoded by the perpendicular distance d of the data unit 82from its associated reference position 84.

Each data unit 82 (or further data units) optionally encodes metadataabout an associated parameter. The metadata is generally encodeddiscretely, i.e. it can only assume certain values. Various examples ofencoding the metadata are given following.

In a first embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 9A, ametadata is encoded as a characteristic size (e.g. the size defined bythe above-defined unit length or area) of the data unit 82, the sizebeing identifiable as a variable by the image processing device 56.Particularly, the size may be one of a list of 2 or 3 or 4 particularsizes, e.g. selected from 60, 80, 100, 120 μm. In a particular example,which is illustrated at the first-third reference positions 84, the sizeof the data unit 82 may be a one of three sizes. In a particularexample, which is illustrated at the fourth reference position 84, thereare three parameters encoded, the data unit 82 of each parameter beingidentifiable by the metadata of the three different sizes.

In a second embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 9B,metadata is encoded as a characteristic position of the data unit 82with respect to the arrangement of the data unit 82 in a directionparallel to the reference line r. In spite of the offset the encodingline D still intersects the data unit 82. In particular: the data unit82 may be offset in a first or second position with respect to theencoding line D to encode two values of the metadata; the data unit 82may be offset in the first or second position or arranged in a thirdposition on the encoding line D to encode three values of the metadata.The first and second position may be defined by a centre of the dataunit 82 arranged a particular distance away from the encoding line D,e.g. at least 20 μm. The third position may be defined by a centre ofthe data unit 82 arranged less than a particular distance away from theencoding line D, e.g. less than 5 μm. In a particular example, which isillustrated at the first-third reference positions 84, the data unit 82may be in a first, second or third position to encode metadata. In aparticular example, which is illustrated at the fourth referenceposition, the said reference position has three parameters encodedtherewith, the data unit 82 of each parameter being identifiable by themetadata of the position of the data unit 82.

In a third embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 9C,metadata is encoded as a characteristic position of one or two dataunits 82 with respect to their arrangement on either side of thereference line r. As examples: a data unit 82 on the left of thereference line r may encode a negative of the parameter and a data unit82 one the right of the reference line r may encode a positive of theparameter or the converse; for the same parameter a data unit 82 on theleft of the reference line r may encode a mantissa, a data unit 82 onethe right of the reference line r may encode an exponent or the conversearrangement; a data unit 82 on the left of the reference line r mayencode the same parameter as that on the right such that an average canbe taken for enhanced accuracy.

In a fourth embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 9D,metadata is encoded as a characteristic position of the data unit 82with respect to the arrangement of the data unit 82 along the referenceline r from the orientation identifier 88. The fourth embodiment issimilar to the second embodiment however the associated reference unit86 moves with the data unit 82, e.g. to define 2 or 3 (as illustrated)positions.

In a fifth embodiment (not shown) metadata is encoded as acharacteristic shape. For example the shape may be one of a list of:circular; triangular; polygon. In a sixth embodiment (not shown)metadata is encoded as a characteristic colour. For example the colourmay be one of a list of: red; green; blue, suitable for identificationby an RGB image sensor.

The first-sixth embodiments may be suitably combined, e.g. an encodedparameter may have metadata encoded with a combination of the first andsecond embodiment.

A specific example of the code 74 for the first embodiment of thepreparation machine 4, is illustrated in FIG. 9E, wherein: the firstreference position 84 and second reference position 84 have associateddata units 82 that encode parameters that have metadata encodedaccording to the second embodiment (i.e. 2 values for the metadata); thethird reference position 86 has a data unit 82 that encodes a parameterwithout any metadata; the fourth reference position 84 has three dataunits 82, each encoding a parameter, the parameter having metadataencoded according to a combination of the first and second embodiment(i.e. 3 values for the size of the unit and 3 values for the position ofthe unit, hence a total of 9 possible values of the metadata).

In particular: the first and second reference positions 84 encode therespective radial angular velocity W1 and the gyration angular velocityW2, with optionally the position above and below the associated encodingline D designating respective positive and negative angular velocities;the third reference position 84 encodes a percentage cooling power toapply; the fourth reference position encodes time, temperature, torqueas the respective small, medium and large data units in particularpositions, whereby these parameters represent triggers such that when acondition set by one of them is achieved then the phase encoded by thecode 74 is compete.

Method of Processing Code

The code processing system 18 processes individual codes according tothe above examples to determine the preparation information by:obtaining by means of the image capturing device 54 a digital image ofthe code; processing by means of the image processing device 56 digitaldata of the digital image to decode the preparation information;outputting by means of the output device 72 said decoded preparationinformation.

Processing of the digital data comprises: locating the units 82, 86 inthe code; identifying the reference units 86 and determining therefrom areference line r, determining for each data unit 82 a distance d alongthe encoding line D from the reference line r, each of which will bedescribed sequentially.

Locating the units 82, 86 in the code is generally achieved byconversion of the pixels represented in the digital data to a one-bitbi-tonal black and white image, i.e. a binary image, whereby theassociated conversion parameters are set to distinguish the units fromtheir surrounding base level. Alternatively an oversampled binary imagesensor may be used as the image capturing device 54 to provide thebinary image. Locations of the centre of units may be determined by afeature extraction technique such as circle Hough Transform. Differentsized units may be identified by pixel integration.

Identification of the reference units 86 and determining therefrom areference line r, is generally achieved by identification of one or acombination of: units that have a linear arrangement; units that are apredetermined and/or greatest distance apart; units that are aparticular shape or size. An orientation identifier 88 of the referenceline r can be determined by: a reference unit 86 that is a differenceshape or size from the other reference units; a reference unit 86 thatdoes not have associated therewith a data unit 82 on an encoding line D.For a code with a polar coordinate system, in certain non-limitingembodiments, the reference line r is determined by identifying areference unit corresponding to the orientation identifier 88 that isarranged at a centre of a circle defined by the circular extendingencoding lines D and determining a reference unit with apredetermined/greatest radial distance therefrom.

For a code with a Polar coordinate system, determining for each dataunit 82 a distance d along the encoding line D from the associatedreference position 84 of the reference line r is generally achieved bydetermining the circumferential distance from the centre of a data unit82 to the associated reference position 84, (e.g. by the product of: anangle in radians at the reference position 88 between the reference liner and a radial line to the data unit 82; and the overall circumferenceof the encoding line D).

For Polar and Cartesian coordinate codes, a determined distance can becorrected using the magnification and/or distance of the image capturingdevice 54 away from the code 74 when the image was captured.

To determine a value V_(p) of the parameter associated with thedetermined distance d, stored information can be utilised that defines arelationship between the parameter and distance d. This step may beperformed at the image processing device 56 or processor 38. Therelationship may be linear, e.g. V_(p)∞d. Alternatively it may benon-linear. A non-linear relationship may comprise a logarithmicrelationship, e.g. V_(p)∞ log(d) or an exponential relationship, e.g.V_(p)∞e^(d). Such a relationship is particular advantageous when theaccuracy of a parameter is important at low values and less important athigh values or the converse e.g. for the first embodiment of thepreparation machine 4 the accuracy of the angular velocities W1, W2 ofthe mixing unit is more important at a low angular velocity than at ahigh angular velocity, hence a logarithmic relationship is preferable(but not limiting of the scope of the present disclosure).

For a code with a Polar coordinate system, as the circumference of theencoding lines D decreases with proximity to the centre of the annularencoding area 90 (i.e. the orientation identifier 88 in the illustratedexamples) the accuracy of the determined distance d is less proximatethe said centre. Advantageously, the parameters that require a higherlevel of precision can be arranged distal said centre and those that donot require a high level of precision can be arranged proximal saidcentre.

The aforesaid metadata about the parameter can be determined dependingon the embodiment of encoding, e.g.: in the first example by determiningfor the associated data unit 82 a unit length by feature extraction oroverall area by pixel integration; in the second example by determiningfor the associated data unit 82 an offset to the encoding line D byfeature extraction; in the third and fourth example by determining thecentre of the associated data units by feature extraction.

An image/plurality of images comprising the different codes 74 can beobtained (i.e. not necessarily an image(s) of every code on thecontainer 6, merely sufficient codes/regions to derive all the encodedphases). The individual codes 74 in the image can be processed in theabove manner to decode for each phase (i.e. each code) the associatedencoded preparation information. The arrangement of the phases can bedetermined by a reading order of the phases/regions and/or by a phaseidentifier encoded in the codes 74. Rather than process each code 74 inthe said image(s), the process may be terminated once sufficient codeshave been processed to determine all the encoded phases. The preparationprocess can then be executed using the preparation information for eachphase in the determined phase order.

Machine and Container Attachments

An attachment 94 may comprise the afore-described code 74 arranged on asurface thereof, the attachment 94 configured for attachment to theafore-described beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 4. Theattachment, an example which is illustrated in FIG. 10, comprises: acarrier 96 for carrying the code 74; an attachment member 98 forattachment of the carrier 96 to the machine 4 between an image capturingdevice 54 of said machine 4 and a container 6 received by said machine 4and proximate said container. In this way an image of the code 74 can becaptured by the image capturing device 54 as if it were attached to thecontainer 6. Examples of suitable attachment members comprise:extensions attached to said carrier comprising an adhesive strip (asillustrated); a mechanical fastener such as a clip, bolt or bracket.

An alternate attachment 100 may comprise the afore-described code 74,arranged on a surface thereof, the attachment 100 configured forattachment to the afore-described container 6. The attachment 100, anexample which is illustrated in FIG. 11, comprises: a carrier 96 forcarrying of the code 74; an attachment member 98 for attachment of thecarrier 96 to the container 6. In this way an image of the code 74 canbe captured by the image capturing device 54 as if it were formedintegrally one the container 6 Examples of suitable attachment memberscomprise: an adhesive strip (as illustrated); a mechanical fastener suchas a clip, bolt or bracket.

LIST OF REFERENCES

-   2 Preparation system-   4 Preparation machine    -   10 Housing        -   20 Base        -   22 Body    -   14 Preparation unit        -   12 Fluid supply            -   24 Reservoir            -   26 Fluid pump            -   28 fluid thermal exchanger        -   Embodiment 1        -   30 Agitator unit        -   32 Auxiliary product unit        -   34 Thermal exchanger        -   52 Receptacle support    -   16 Control system        -   36 User interface        -   38 Processor            -   46 Memory unit                -   48 Preparation program        -   40 Sensors (temperature, receptacle level, flow rate,            torque, velocity)        -   42 Power supply        -   44 Communication interface    -   18 Code processing system        -   54 Image capturing device        -   56 Image processing device        -   72 Output device-   6 Container    -   Capsule/Receptacle    -   58 Body portion    -   60 Lid portion    -   62 Flange portion    -   Packet    -   64 Sheet material    -   66 Internal volume    -   68 Inlet    -   70 Outlet        -   74 Code            -   76 Unit                -   78 Data portion                -    90 Encoding area                -    82 Data unit                -   80 Reference portion                -    84 Reference position                -    86 Reference unit                -    88 Orientation identifier

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of encoding preparationinformation, the method comprising: forming a plurality of separatecodes on: a container for a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine,the container for containing beverage or foodstuff material; or anattachment for attachment to said container or a beverage of foodstuffpreparation machine; and whereby each code at least partially encodes adistinct phase of a preparation process.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the codes have a peripheral length of 800 - 1500 μm.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, wherein one or more of the codes have a rectangularshape at a periphery thereof, and are arranged adjacent to each otheralong at least one edge thereof.
 4. The method of claim 3, whereinadjacent codes are rotated by one of 90°, 180°, and 270°.
 5. The methodof claim 1, wherein the codes are arranged as a plurality of columns,the columns being adjacent each other and extending along paralleltracks, whereby adjacent columns are offset with respect to each otherin a direction along said tracks.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein thecodes are arranged in a sequence that is ordered according to an orderof use of the phases encoded therein during a preparation process. 7.The method of claim 6, wherein the codes are arranged into a pluralityof coding regions, whereby each coding region comprises: a plurality ofcodes encoding the same phase, whereby the regions have said sequentialarrangement; or a plurality of codes encoding the different phases,whereby said plurality of codes in each region have said sequentialarrangement.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein one or more of the codesencodes as the preparation information a phase identifier to identify anorder of the phase used during said preparation process.
 9. The methodof claim 1, wherein the code comprises: a reference portion comprisingan arrangement of at least two reference units for defining a referenceline r; and a data portion comprising at least one data unit, whereinsaid data unit is arranged on an encoding line D that intersects thereference line r, the data unit occupies a distance d along the encodingline D as a variable to at least partially encode a parameter of thepreparation information.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the encodingline D has one of the following arrangements: the encoding line D iscircular and is arranged with a tangent thereto orthogonal to thereference line r at said intersection point; and the encoding line D islinear and arranged orthogonal to the reference line r.
 11. The methodof claim 1, wherein the container comprises one of the following: acapsule; a packet; a receptacle for consumption of the beverage orfoodstuff therefrom; and a collapsible container.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the container comprises a packet comprising aplurality of internal volumes, whereby each internal volume hasassociated therewith a said arrangement of codes.
 13. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising providing a beverage or foodstuffpreparation system comprising: the container; and a beverage orfoodstuff preparation machine, said preparation machine comprising: apreparation unit to receive the container and to prepare a beverage orfoodstuff therefrom; a code processing system operable to: obtain one ormore digital image(s) of a plurality of codes of the container; processsaid digital image(s) to decode for each phase of a beverage preparationprocess the encoded preparation information and to determine an order ofsaid phases; and a control system operable to control the preparationunit to execute the preparation process using said decoded preparationinformation in the determined order of phases.